Vietnam has so far successfully managed to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. Re-opening the economy would require extensive collective public and government action, while balancing adherence to COVID-19 mitigation guidelines. Thus long term psychological impacts of COVID-19 must be taken into account as individuals will continue to require screening, testing, contact tracing, isolation and treatment for COVID-19.

The far-reaching effects of the COVID-19 pandemic has permeated through many aspects of life for most individuals. While fear of stigma may have had some positive impacts on the behaviour of some individuals, this may have significant detrimental ramifications for the social associations with COVID-19, proactive engagement in testing, long-term recovery and social reintegration of treated patients. Better education and improved policies are required to prevent stigmatization of those infected with COVID-19 and their contacts. We need to see COVID-19 as a permanent threat with all individuals at risk. The need for widespread community adherence to recommended COVID-19 preventive guidelines and trust of the community remains critical.